Meet Marlie Nesbeth | Jamaican Mobile Eatery Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Marlie Nesbeth and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marlie, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
Unlike how it appears on Food Network food trucks operate under a lot of restrictions related to permitting and compliance. Because food trucks are mobile businesses that operate oftentimes in several counties each area sometimes require permits for parking, tax return filing, liability insurance coverage. For example MarlieQs Caribbean Queen food truck is based in Charlotte North Carolina however when we do a city event in Rock Hill, SC we have to maintain a tax filing account there even going as far as filing ongoing $0 returns after that one appearance.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Charlotte’s vibrant food scene has been graced by the flavorful presence of a Caribbean food truck affectionately called BIG BLUE for the past 8 years. What makes our mobile eatery truly special is the love we put in each bite of our food. From college campus to local events and festivals, the tantalizing aromas and bold flavors of our authentic Jamaican cuisine have captured the hearts and palates of our local community.

The journey of our mobile food eatery is a testament to the passion, dedication, and gift I gained from my parents to replicate the flavors of our fan favorites, oxtails and jerk chicken “We are thrilled to celebrate 8 years of serving the Charlotte community with the vibrant and mouth-watering flavors of the Caribbean,”

“Our journey has been nothing short of an incredible adventure, and we are grateful for the unwavering support and love from our loyal customers.” It’s not been easy as like every business there are challenges related to staffing, marketing, food cost increasing, understanding the customer . Add to all of that packing up a kitchen and driving it to an event. We’ve had days where we’re all packed up and ready to go and the truck won’t start. However we press on

Our BIG BLUE food truck has become a beloved fixture at local events and festivals over the years, drawing foodies who have been to Jamaica or would love to go to Jamaica, curious eaters eager to savor the island flavors. AT our service window our customers are met with warm hospitality and a smile.

We plan to continue delighting Charlotte with our authentic recipes, warm smiles, and genuine passion for sharing the flavors of the Caribbean with the community. We have exciting plans for the future, including new menu offerings and expansion into the packaged condiment space with our jerk sauce,

For those looking to embark on a sensory journey to the Caribbean without leaving Charlotte, Big Blue stands as a beacon of authenticity, tradition, and culinary excellence with love in every bite. With each flavorful bite , patrons are transported to the sun-kissed shores and lush landscapes of Jamaica.
What sets us apart is our commitment to traditional recipes, fresh ingredients, and the home-style cooking techniques that have been passed down through generations. We’re proud of our signature jerk chicken, slow-cooked to perfection and our lively, colorful truck that embodies the spirit of the island. But what excites us most is sharing our culture through food and seeing the joy it brings to our customers, becoming a community staple where every meal is a celebration.

We call it “Escape to Jamaica one bite at a time”

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
*Breakfast Spot

Zada Jane’s Corner Cafe 1601 Central Ave

**Lunch:**
Community Matters Cafe 821 W 1st St

Afternoon Tea in a relaxing environment
Pauline Tea Bar 2326 Arty Ave

Best Donuts
Beyond Amazing donuts 1730 Abbey Place

**Dinner:**

Exotica Indian Kitchen 500 S College St

Enat Ethiopian Optimist Hall

Mano Bella 721 Gov Morrison St Ste 150

Favorite trails
Latta Nature Preserve
6345 Sample Rd

Live Music
Society at 229
Middle C Jazz

Church
Steele Creek Church at Eastfield 11800 Eastfield Rd

Mural Tour Beatties Ford Rd from the 400 block

– *The Mint Museum Uptown* at Levine Center for the Arts for a dynamic collection of American, contemporary, and European art.
– *The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art* for a stunning facility with works by some of the most influential artists of the mid 20th century.
– *The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture* to delve into African-American culture, heritage, and experiences through art.

– *The Levine Museum of the New South* offers a deep dive into post-Civil War Southern history and its ongoing transformation.
Enjoy time in the Queen City!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First of all , God has been faithful these past 9 years . Shoutout to the Q in MarlieQs , we are a mother/daughter duo. I started the food truck business when she was in high school and she has been my biggest supporter and partner. BIG Shout out to everyone who was a part of the THINK BIG challenge given by Bishop Davis and who have supported the manifestation of our THINK BIG. Shout out to every person who despite the 6,542 food options they had chose MarlieQs . We wouldn’t be here without you

Website: marlieqs.com

Instagram: @marlieqs

Facebook: @marlieqs